The Bristol Corn Feed and Trade Association is an active trade association with a growing membership covering companies involved in the grain and feed trade and the associated functions. Whilst in title it is regional because of changes in trading patterns its membership now covers the whole UK. The role of BCFTA had developed over the years as it has adapted to the changing needs of the trade from one of a contract and arbitration provider to a more broad one of providing industry specific training, education, information and communication. Training and Education BCFTA runs in its own right a number of industry specific training courses, such as ones for HACCP and its ever popular Trade Awareness Course. The trade awareness course is normally held twice a year over two days and enables member company's employees to gain a greater understanding of the industry, its customers and their needs. In addition member companies can apply for a grant from the BCFTA education fund for employees to attend externally organised courses and events. Information The association publishes its news letter 'On The Nail' twice a year with over 500 copies being sent to members of the association and the guild. BCFTA also has links with both GAFTA and AIC as well as other trade associations and acts as a channel to and from these organisations and its members. Communication In these days of increased use of none personal contact means of communication such as emails, communication becomes ever more remote and one of BCFTA's important functions is to provide events and activities for members of the trade to meet and get to know each other. This is achieved by arranging meetings, seminars and such events as well as an annual Bristol Dinner when well over 300 people members of the trade and customers meet. General BCFTA is a trade organisation which is always looking for ways to promote and represent its members interests and those of the industry. With this in mind suggestions are always welcome from both members and non members on activities or services that BCFTA should provide.